A wave of jubilation has swept across Kapsabet as Catholics celebrate the historic appointment of Rev. John Lelei as the new Bishop of Kapsabet Diocese
The newly formed Diocese (28th in the Country) has been carved out of the Catholic Diocese of Eldoret and it will serve the faithful across Nandi County
The announcement, made by the Vatican, has been received with overwhelming excitement across all 36 parishes in the region. From church services to prayer vigils, the faithful have welcomed the news as a divine blessing and a historic milestone for the local church.
At Our Lady of Peace Cathedral, the atmosphere was filled with songs of praise and thanksgiving during a special Mass held in honor of the bishop-designate.
“This is an answered prayer for the people of Nandi,” said Fr. Charles Maiyo. “We have watched Bishop Lelei grow in faith and service. His humility and wisdom make him the perfect shepherd.”
Catholic schools in the region also held prayer sessions and thanksgiving songs in honor of the bishop-elect.
“He understands our culture and our challenges. His appointment gives us hope and pride,” said Margaret Jepchumba, a youth leader.”.
Church leaders across the North Rift region led by Patrick Kitur praised the bishop-elect’s spiritual maturity and leadership saying his leadership is marked by humility, a strong academic background, and dedication to youth mentorship, peace-building, and interfaith unity.
“Bishop Lelei is a man of deep prayer, intellect, and a pastoral hearted faithful. The Church in Kapsabet is blessed to have him at the helm,” said Kitur who is also the Moderator of the Diocese of Eldoret.
Samuel Soronei, Chairman of the Kapsabet Diocese Laity Council, said the faithful are fully behind their new leader.
“We welcome him with open arms and pledge our unwavering support as he begins this sacred journey of leadership.”
The 66-year-old bishop born in Soy has served the Catholic Church for over two decades. He was ordained in the early 2000s under the Diocese of Eldoret.
He holds a Doctorate in Theology, specializing in liturgy, from the University of Vienna. He has served in various pastoral positions like vicar in Suwerwa and Chepterit, parish priest in Yamumbi, Tachasis, Kapcherop, Tindinyo, and Kapsabet.
He studied philosophy at St. Augustine’s Senior Seminary (Mabanga) and theology at St. Thomas Aquinas Major Seminary (Nairobi).
Lelei is widely respected for his pastoral approach, calm leadership style, and commitment to grassroots evangelism and education.
He is celebrated for his deep liturgical knowledge, service in formation and seminary governance, as well as his pastoral dedication to families and youth. His appointment is seen as a milestone, ushering in localized spiritual leadership and growth in the Nandi region.
Nandi Governor Stephen Sang also congratulated the new bishop, saying, “This is a proud moment for Nandi. We look forward to working closely with Bishop Lelei in strengthening the moral and spiritual foundation of our society.”
Preparations are now underway for Bishop Lelei’s episcopal ordination, expected in the coming weeks. Thousands of faithful clergy and national church leaders are expected to attend the landmark event.
By Linet Wafula
